On April 5, 2019, Upperco Volunteer Fire Company responded to a mutual aid call in Hampstead, MD for a rescue. When units arrived, they found 27 dogs and 11 deceased dogs. Several of our volunteers describe the scene as one of the worst they have ever assisted. The surviving dogs were transported to the Humane Society of Carroll County, where they are being treated. Some rescued dogs have already been returned to their previous owners, thanks to microchips.

Upperco VFC started a campaign on their Facebook page called “Operation Rescue” on April 7, 2019. This campaign was to raise donations to assist with the care of the “Black Rock Dogs”. Within hours of posting, several community members dropped off items. Items included dog food, towels, dog bones, and cleaning supplies.

On April 16, PIO, Richard Blesser packed up the donated items and took them to the Humane Society of Carroll County. While we were not able to see the dogs, we were told they are doing well given the circumstances and that the donations will be able to assist in the dogs rehabilitation.

Upperco VFC would like to thank their community for the doggie donations . It’s this type of giving that makes our community so very special.